Province Called to Step In
CCN Reporting
Vredenburg:- Growing public pressure and political fallout have gripped the Saldanha Bay Municipality, as serious allegations of financial mismanagement.
Allegations of irregular construction projects, and abuse of power have surfaced prompting calls for an urgent provincial investigation.
Patriotic Alliance (PA) councillor William Morrison has taken a bold step by filing a formal complaint with the Western Cape Department of Local Government, demanding an independent investigation into the troubled municipality. The allegations paint a troubling picture of internal power struggles, questionable development decisions, and public safety concerns.
Morrison claims that widespread governance failures, including the loss of millions in public funds, irregular private developments, and even a construction worker’s death, point to deep-rooted dysfunction.
“The cumulative financial losses facing the municipality run into millions,” Morrison stated, adding that senior officials allegedly facilitated private developments outside the municipal zoning regulations.
Concerns over occupational safety, infrastructure standards, and irregular approval processes have also been raised by other councillors, including Ivan Rooyen, who claims municipal assets such as vehicles are being mismanaged, with staff facing intimidation for speaking out.
The Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Anton Bredell, has acknowledged receipt of Morrison’s complaints and confirmed the matter is being assessed. Insiders suggest that anonymous municipal employees have also submitted evidence but fear victimisation if exposed.
With the situation escalating and the community demanding transparency, eyes are now firmly fixed on the province’s next move. Will the allegations spark a full-scale forensic investigation, or will they be buried in political maneuvering?
CCN will closely monitor developments as residents await answers and accountability.
